Wildflower Group, Hermes-OTTO launch program for Bombay Company

New York-based licensing and branding agency The Wildflower Group is working with global trading company Hermes-OTTO International USA on a lifestyle licensing and merchandising program for the Bombay Company.

The Wildflower Group is working to expand the Bombay brand into a wide-ranging program that includes kitchen textiles, home office essentials, fabric and upholstery, flooring, home storage/organization, seasonal decor, bathroom fixtures, luggage/travel accessories, and men's and women's gifts for mid-tier and specialty retailers.

Currently available at retail are offerings by Powell Furniture and JLA Home Fashions. Collections from Lifetime Brands and Arden Companies will be introduced in 2014.

"It's very exciting to be part of a brand revival with so much opportunity," said Michael Carlisle, principal of The Wildflower Group. "Our comprehensive brand expansion program will capitalize on the sky-high name recognition for the iconic brand among consumers, while delivering distinctive ‘value luxury' offerings with classic styling and unexpected detail." "We are delighted to partner with The Wildflower Group to expand the reach of the Bombay brand into additional licensed product categories," said Wil Hollands, president of Hermes-Otto International USA. "Establishing strong licensing partnerships is a fundamental element of our overall growth strategy, and we sought out The Wildflower Group as a partner because they are a proven leader in the licensing business."

For 35 years, consumers have been drawn to Bombay's blend of classic style with exotic influences that produce heirloom-quality furnishings and authentic design reproductions. Bombay is one of the most recognizable home décor brands in America, according to a December 2013 study by market research company Research Now.

The Bombay Co. brand name was introduced in 1978 as a mail order business that grew into a chain of more than 450 boutique specialty stores and ultimately achieved more than $500 million in sales. The Wildflower Group and H-OI are looking to expand the excitement of the enduring brand for today's consumer.